David McCallum, the British actor best known for his role as Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard on “NCIS,” has died at age 90. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by family at the New York Presbyterian Hospital. McCallum’s son, Peter, shared that his father was not just a talented actor but a devoted family man, cherishing his marriage to his wife of 56 years, Katherine Carpenter, and his role as a grandfather to his eight grandchildren.

McCallum’s career spanned over six decades, with a breakout role in the 1960s as Illya Kuryakin in “The Man From U.N.C.L.E.” He became a TV icon, but his personal life faced challenges, including a failed first marriage to actress Jill Ireland, who left him for his friend and co-star Charles Bronson.

After a painful divorce, McCallum found new love with Carpenter, a 21-year-old model. They married in 1967 and had two children, Peter and Sophie. Despite their long-distance relationship, with McCallum based in Los Angeles and Carpenter in New York, their love thrived, thanks to a deep understanding and consistent communication. McCallum’s passing leaves behind a legacy of great acting, family devotion, and enduring love.